For those people who menstruate, their journey can be very different and certainly subjective. Whether it’s when we first begin that journey, the experiences we have or the products we use. Personally, my experience has varied, as when I first began to menstruate in my early years of high school (I’ll be honest, I’ve completely forgot the exact age) I began using sanitary towels as they were what was accessible to me at the time, as well as being the only product that I was confident with. The downside was that during the day at school, changing them was an absolute mission – Hoping that someone would switch on the hand dryer in the bathroom so that it would disguise the noise of the wrapper. And don’t even get me started on P.E. days when I would try to discretely change without flashing the wings to anyone.
Shame seemed to be a common theme when it came to sanitary products, hiding them in secret pockets in my bag, or passing them like a dodgy deal in class to a friend in need. Now, I can see that the social situation I was in validated that behaviour, and of course attitudes might be different in schools today. I can only speak as someone in their early twenties, and tell you that my own attitudes have completely changed. That ‘shame’ isn’t entirely non-existent, but I’m no longer waiting for hand dryers in public bathrooms, and open conversations about products or experiences is part of norm in my social circle.
It was in my mid-teens that I introduced myself to tampons when I was given a free sample at school; which is something we also need to make accessible for younger people, particularly social minorities. Although they were a little scary at first, they soon became familiar and seemed slightly more hygienic than sanitary towels. In my late teens the awareness of waste then became apparent, and I transitioned into non-applicator tampons which reduced the amount of plastic used every month. However, it was in the last year or so that my conscience felt guilty every time I flushed one down the toilet. Admittedly I wasn’t aware that you shouldn’t do this, instead it’s recommended that you wrap any used tampon in toilet paper and dispose of in the bin. Being the only person in my house who menstruates though, I guess the ‘shame’ factor subconsciously sneaked in, and flushing seemed like the quickest, easiest method of disposal.
In my 2020 quest to change some of my wasteful habits, period products were at the top of my list, and I knew that I wanted to try a menstrual cup. I had already seen the big names like DivaCup and Mooncup before, and I guess have always been curious as to whether it’s worth the investment. When initially researching, I had seen the OrganiCup popping up when looking into ethical brands, but if I was going to make a purchase like this, I also wanted to make sure my money was going to a brand that gave back. That’s when I discovered Bettercup - Who’s product is not only vegan, cruelty free, 100% medical grade silicone and hypoallergenic, but they also have a buy-one give-one model to those in need. After reading more into the brand, I found out that they are a small business based in Brighton, founded by Ruth Marsden who aimed at creating a quality, sustainable product - Whilst also working with Hope School in Zimbabwe, gifting products to both students and staff.
They have two sizes for their menstrual cup, Size A: For those who haven’t given birth or under 25, and Size B: For those who have given birth or over 25. For advice on sizing though, I recommend heading over to their Instagram @_betterup as they have specific information, and also offer some great tips and advice for anyone who is thinking about or has already purchased. As of right now, it’s been a week since I finished my first period using a menstrual cup, and so I wanted to share my own immediate experience.
Prior to using, I sterilised the cup in boiling water which I just placed in a bowl for 3 minutes – And then obviously let it cool before going in for the first use. When it did come to using it, I folded the cup in half lengthways, trying a good three times with additional checks to make sure I’d done it correctly. Much like a tampon, you don’t feel the cup at all, and after reassuring myself it wasn’t going to get lost, I went by with the rest of my day not having to worry about when to change next. That’s a major perk of this product, and something that I was completely sold on, especially as someone who has been forgetful in the past. The only time I did remove the cup was first thing in the morning and last thing at night - And although it may seem like a small factor, having my time in the day felt freeing as I wasn’t planning my hours around when I needed to change anymore.
For the first day or two, getting used to emptying was a challenge, but after that it became routine. You’ll be glad to know that it didn’t get lost, although without breaking the vacuum that the cup creates, removing the very first time was quite painful. By making sure the vacuum is broken, removing the cup becomes so much easier, and gently pulling the stem on the bottom of the cup can also help guide it if you’re really struggling. As for cleaning, it’s a simple case of emptying into the toilet and rinsing with water, although I’m gonna be real for a second: Perhaps on that first day of your period when it can be heavier, make sure you have some toilet paper in hand before you go in to remove the cup, just so you can wipe if needed. Otherwise you’ll be like myself on that first day, juggling everything and looking like a farcical comedy. After your period you should then sterilise the cup in boiling water again, before storing in the little cotton bag that’s included with the Bettercup.
After my first time using the Bettercup, I have no worries about my next period, for the sole fact of how much time and waste I’ve saved myself. Of course, as a white female, being able to have a choice of the products I use is a privilege. At £20.00 this is an investment, but one that I would suggest making only if you can, as in the long-term you’ll be saving money from the disposable products you aren’t buying anymore. Perhaps though, for those who want to make a slow transition into waste-free products, definitely look into non-applicator products, or even Superdrug’s new Luna range; which also seems affordable as well as more conscious than other brands.
As for my Bettercup, with something that can last me 10 years with proper care, I’d say I’m pretty set for a while. And I have the additional reassurance that there’s no nasties involved, which is something that has crossed my mind in the past when using tampons. I can confidently say that this has definitely changed the game for me - It’s better, period. Part of me wishes I had found this brand sooner, but still I’m happy I have it now and took the chance with using a menstrual cup. Maybe you should take the chance too?
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